Aptamer Group plc, a developer of synthetic antibody alternatives, has announced two new development contracts for its Optimer binders and a licensing heads of terms agreement with a global specialty enzyme provider. The developments signal continued momentum for the company’s Optimer platform in enzyme modulation and small molecule recognition for research and diagnostic applications.

The first of the new development contracts involves the creation of additional enzyme-modulating Optimers for an existing client, aiming to expand their reagent portfolio. The second contract is with a top 20 global pharmaceutical firm, focused on developing Optimer reagents targeting a specific small molecule for internal research use. Aptamer highlighted its proprietary discovery methods for small molecules, which it claims offer enhanced specificity and a higher rate of success compared to traditional antibodies. Aptamer will retain intellectual property rights on the developed binders, opening potential avenues for future licensing revenue.

Separately, Aptamer has agreed to licensing heads of terms with a global provider of specialty enzymes for Optimer binders developed under two prior fee-for-service contracts. Binders from the first contract, delivered in January 2025, reportedly demonstrated strong performance in the partner’s internal evaluations, leading to further contract work. The licensing terms for this agreement include undisclosed milestone payments and a 10% royalty on sales of products incorporating the Optimers. Aptamer anticipates initial revenues from this non-exclusive arrangement within the next fiscal year. The second licensing agreement also includes a 10% royalty, along with additional undisclosed financial terms tied to the successful commercialization of the developed Optimers. The enzyme provider operates within the PCR market, which was valued at $9.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at an 8.6% compound annual growth rate.

Dr Arron Tolley, CEO of Aptamer Group, said: “These repeat research and licensing agreements with both pharmaceutical and enzyme industry partners underscore the growing validation of the Optimer platform across a range of molecular targets. The application of Optimers in enzyme modulation and small molecule recognition aligns with unmet needs in research and diagnostic tool development. The retained IP and downstream royalty arrangements provide long-term value potential while supporting current research collaborations.”

The financial details of the new development contracts were not disclosed.